Tennessee Driver's License FAQs
- Learner’s Permit Process, Requirements, and Restrictions
- Driver’s License Process, Requirements, and Restrictions
- TN Driver’s License Requirements and Restrictions (Age-wise)
- Driver’s License and Permit Fee and Renewal Cost
- Tennessee Driver’s License Renewal Process and Requirements
- Driver’s License Expiry, Suspension, Replacement, and Reinstatement
- Tennessee Written Knowledge and Driving Test
- Foreign or Out-of-State Driver’s License
- Driver’s License Points and Status
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
- Getting a Tennessee Motorcycle License
- Miscellaneous
Learner’s Permit Process, Requirements, and Restrictions
How to get a learner's permit in Tennessee?
To get a learner's permit in Tennessee, you must be at least 15 years old. You must visit your local DMV, pass a vision test, and take a written knowledge exam. Be sure to bring the required documents, including proof of identity, residency, and your Social Security number. Once you pass the tests and pay the fee, you'll receive your permit, which allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult in the car.
How long do you have to have your permit to get your license in Tennessee?
You need to hold your Tennessee learner's permit for at least 180 days before you can apply for an intermediate driver’s license.
What documents are needed for a TN learner's permit?
The following documents are required for applying for a learner’s permit in Tennessee:
- Proof of USA citizenship or lawful presence (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of Tennessee residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)
- Your Social Security card or proof of your Social Security number
- A parent or guardian's signature if under 18
Can you drive to school with a permit in Tennessee?
No, you can’t drive alone to school with just a learner’s permit in Tennessee. You must always have a licensed driver at least 21 years old sitting in the front seat with you when you're behind the wheel.
Driver’s License Process, Requirements, and Restrictions
Can I get my 21 license before my birthday in Tennessee?
No, you cannot get your 21-year-old driver’s license in Tennessee before your 21st birthday. You must wait until your birthday to apply for the unrestricted license upgrade.
What is a Class D license in Tennessee?
A Class D license in Tennessee is the standard driver’s license that allows you to operate passenger vehicles, such as cars and small trucks. It’s the most common license for everyday drivers who aren’t operating commercial or specialized vehicles.
How long does it take to get your license in the mail in Tennessee?
Once you've passed your driving test and completed all the necessary steps, it typically takes about 20 business days to receive your driver’s license in the mail in Tennessee.
How to get a driver's license in Tennessee?
To get a driver’s license in Tennessee, you must visit the DMV, pass a vision screening, a written knowledge test, and a road skills test (if you're a new driver). Bring the required documents, pay the applicable fees, and you'll be issued your license once you’ve passed the exams.
What documents do I need to get a Tennessee driver's license?
You’ll need to bring several documents, including:
- Proof of USA citizenship or lawful presence (like a birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of your Tennessee residency (such as a utility bill or lease)
- Proof of your Social Security number (such as your Social Security card)
- A parent or guardian’s signature if under 18.
TN Driver’s License Requirements and Restrictions (Age-wise)
What age can you get your permit in Tennessee?
You can apply for a learner’s permit in Tennessee when you’re 15 years old.
What age can you get your license in Tennessee?
You can get your intermediate restricted driver’s license at 16, as long as you’ve held a learner’s permit for at least 6 months and met the necessary driving practice requirements.
Can a 16-year-old driver have passengers in Tennessee?
Yes, but there are restrictions. A 16-year-old can only have one passenger who is not an immediate family member unless there’s a licensed adult aged 21 or older in the car.
How late can a 16-year-old drive in Tennessee?
A 16-year-old with an intermediate restricted license cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
How late can a 17-year-old drive in Tennessee?
A 17-year-old with an intermediate restricted license cannot drive between midnight and 6 a.m., unless a parent or legal guardian is present.
How many passengers can a 17-year-old have in Tennessee?
A 17-year-old driver with an intermediate restricted license can only have one passenger who is not an immediate family member unless a licensed driver aged 21 or older is also in the vehicle.
Can you get your license at 18 without a permit in Tennessee?
Yes, if you’re 18 or older, you can get a driver’s license without having to first hold a learner’s permit. You will need to pass the written and road tests.
Can you get your permit at 14 in Tennessee?
No, in Tennessee, the minimum age to apply for a learner’s permit is 15.
If you are 18, do you need a permit to get your license in Tennessee?
No, if you are 18 or older, you do not need a permit to get your license. You can directly apply for a driver’s license after passing the required tests.
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Driver’s License and Permit Fee and Renewal Cost
How much does it cost to get a driver's license in Tennessee?
The cost of a standard Class D driver’s license in Tennessee is $28 and is valid for 8 years.
How much is a permit in Tennessee?
A learner’s permit in Tennessee costs $10.50, and it is valid for one year.
How much does it cost to take your permit test in Tennessee?
There is no additional fee for the written permit test; it’s included in the $10.50 fee for the learner’s permit.
How much does it cost to renew your license in Tennessee?
To renew your driver’s license, it costs $28 for a regular 8-year renewal.
How much is driving school in Tennessee?
The cost of driving school in Tennessee varies, but it typically ranges from $300 to $600 for behind-the-wheel training. Classroom sessions may be less, depending on the driving school.
Tennessee Driver’s License Renewal Process and Requirements
Can you renew a learner's permit online in Tennessee?
No, learner's permits in Tennessee cannot be renewed online. You need to visit a Driver Services Center in person.
Do I have to renew my license when I turn 21 in Tennessee?
Yes, you will need to renew your license on or after your 21st birthday to receive a regular, unrestricted license.
How long do you have to renew your driver’s license after it expires in TN?
In Tennessee, you have up to 30 days after your license expires to renew it without penalty. After that, you may face additional fees.
How to renew a license in TN?
You can renew your driver’s license online, by mail (if eligible), or in person at a Driver Services Center.
What documents do I need to renew my license in Tennessee?
To renew your license in Tennessee, you will need proof of citizenship or lawful presence (e.g., a birth certificate or passport), proof of Social Security number, and two proofs of Tennessee residency.
What are two proofs of residency for DMV in Tennessee?
Acceptable proofs of residency include a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, voter registration card, or bank statement with your name and Tennessee address.
Driver’s License Expiry, Suspension, Replacement, and Reinstatement
How long is a Tennessee driver's license good for?
A standard Tennessee driver's license is valid for eight years. However, the expiration date can vary depending on your age or residency status.
How to get a replacement driver's license in TN?
To get a replacement driver's license, visit a local DMV office or apply online, provide proof of identification, and pay a replacement fee.
If my permit expires, do I have to take the test again in Tennessee?
Yes, if your learner’s permit expires in Tennessee, you will likely need to retake the written knowledge test to obtain a new permit.
Is there a grace period for expired tags in TN?
No, Tennessee does not offer a grace period for expired tags. You must renew your vehicle registration before it expires to avoid penalties or fines.
Tennessee Written Knowledge and Driving Test
Do you have to take a written test to get your license in Tennessee?
If you're applying for a first-time driver's license in Tennessee, you'll need to pass a written knowledge test to get your learner’s permit before moving on to the driving test.
How long do you have to wait to take the driving test after the written test in Tennessee?
Once you’ve passed the written test and have held your learner’s permit for at least 180 days, you can take the driving test to get your license, depending on your age.
How many questions are on the permit test in TN?
The Tennessee permit test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions covering road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices.
How many questions can you miss on the permit test in TN?
You can miss up to six questions on the permit test, as you need to answer at least 24 questions correctly to pass.
Can I take my permit test online in Tennessee?
No, Tennessee does not currently offer an online option for the permit test. You must take it in person at a DMV office.
Do you have to parallel park in a driving test in Tennessee?
Yes, parallel parking is part of the driving skills test in Tennessee. You’ll be required to demonstrate your ability to safely park between two vehicles or within a designated space.
Foreign or Out-of-State Driver’s License
Can I drive in Tennessee with an out-of-state permit?
Yes, you can drive in Tennessee with an out-of-state learner's permit as long as you follow the restrictions of your home state. However, you must also follow Tennessee’s rules, such as being accompanied by a licensed driver over 21 in the front seat.
How to become a Tennessee resident?
To become a Tennessee resident, you must establish a permanent residence in the state. This can include living and working in Tennessee, enrolling your children in local schools, or registering to vote. Once you have established residency, you can apply for a Tennessee driver's license and register your vehicle within 30 days.
Driver’s License Points and Status
How to get points off your license in TN?
Points on your Tennessee license will gradually be removed after 12 months from the violation date. However, attending a state-approved defensive driving course can help reduce points and prevent suspension. You should contact the Tennessee Department of Safety to check eligibility for point reduction.
How many points are on my license in TN?
You can check how many points are on your Tennessee driver’s license by visiting the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security online portal or contacting your local DMV office. You may also request a copy of your driving record.
How many points can you get on your license in TN?
In Tennessee, accumulating 12 or more points on your driving record within 12 months can result in a license suspension. For drivers under 18, the limit is 6 points within 12 months before triggering a possible suspension.
How to check license status in TN?
To check your license status in Tennessee, you can visit the Tennessee Department of Safety's online service portal. You can review your driving record, points, and license status there. Alternatively, you can call the DMV or request a copy of your driving history in person.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
How many questions are on the CDL permit test in TN?
The Tennessee CDL permit test consists of 50 questions. You must answer at least 40 correctly to pass. Additional tests with varying question numbers may be required depending on the endorsements you want.
How much does it cost to get a CDL license in Tennessee?
The cost of a CDL in Tennessee varies. The application fee for a permit is around $14. The full CDL license costs around $70, but additional fees may apply for endorsements such as HAZMAT.
How to get a CDL in TN?
To get a CDL in Tennessee, you must first pass the CDL knowledge test and obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). Then, you must complete a driving skills test, which includes pre-trip inspections, basic controls, and a road test. Once you pass these, you can obtain your full CDL. Be sure to meet the medical requirements and provide the necessary documentation, like proof of residency and identity.
How long does it take to get a CDL in Tennessee?
Obtaining a CDL in Tennessee can take several weeks to a few months. The timeline depends on how long it takes to study for the written test, complete the required training, and schedule and pass the driving test.
How to get a Hazmat Endorsement in TN?
To get a Hazmat endorsement in Tennessee, you must pass the Hazmat knowledge test, complete a TSA background check, and provide your fingerprints. Additionally, you must have a valid CDL and meet federal requirements for hazardous materials transport. The process can take a few weeks due to the security checks.
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Getting a Tennessee Motorcycle License
Do you need a motorcycle license in TN?
Yes, you need a motorcycle license or endorsement in Tennessee to operate a motorcycle legally.
How old do you have to be to get a motorcycle license in Tennessee?
You must be at least 15 to obtain a motorcycle learner's permit in Tennessee. For a full motorcycle license (Class M), you must be at least 16 years old.
How to get a motorcycle license in TN?
To get a motorcycle license in Tennessee, you must first pass a written knowledge test and a vision exam. After that, you'll need to pass a motorcycle skills test unless you complete a state-approved motorcycle safety course, which may waive the skills test requirement. You'll also need to provide proof of identity and residency and pay the required fees at a DMV office.
Miscellaneous
How long does it take to drive to Tennessee?
The time it takes to drive to Tennessee depends on your starting location. For example, driving from New York City to Nashville takes around 12-13 hours, while driving from Atlanta takes about 3-4 hours. You can use GPS apps for accurate travel times based on traffic and weather conditions.
How long does it take to establish residency in Tennessee?
To establish residency in Tennessee, you generally need to live in the state for at least 30 days. You’ll need to update your driver's license, vehicle registration, and other records during this time.
How long does it take to get a hardship license in Tennessee?
Approval takes a few weeks after applying for a hardship license in Tennessee. You must submit the necessary documents, pass the required tests, and wait for the court or DMV to process your application.
How to get an intermediate unrestricted license in TN?
For a Tennessee intermediate unrestricted license, you must be at least 17, hold a restricted intermediate license for at least one year, and not have more than six points on your record. You can apply at a DMV office by bringing your intermediate restricted license and proof of identity and paying the required fee.
Can I change the address on my driver's license online in TN?
Yes, you can change your address online in Tennessee through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security's website. You'll need your driver's license number and personal information to complete the process.
How to change the address on the license in TN?
You can change your Tennessee driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. You’ll receive an updated license by mail if done online or by mail. You’ll need your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
Where can I get a Tennessee driver’s handbook?
You can obtain a Tennessee driver’s handbook online from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website or pick up a copy at any local DMV office. The handbook provides essential information for preparing for the written and road tests.